Celebrity to Alaska
 

We will be going to Alaska on the Mercury this August. Any ideas on not to be missed land excursions in Sitka, Juneau and Ketchikan? Also, should I make arrangements with cruise line or book independently? Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks.

Hi Sue,<BR><BR>Best to talk to an Alaskan cruise expert. Search for a travel agent that can supply you with answers and one that has cruised many times and is familiar with the ports. There is a right way and a wrong way to see Alaska. Do not let your trip of a lifetime be more expensive than necessary and you definitely will not wish to miss anything.<BR><BR>In any event, do not book a round trip just to save money. There are too many ships sailing Alaska this year and there are many promotions on the one way trips.<BR><BR>Paul

Here's one suggestion: take the Mt. Roberts Tramway in Juneau. There are walking trails at the top, plus a gift shop and restaurant, not to mention the view below. But as Paul has pointed out here before, don't prebook it. Wait until you get there to see what the weather is like.

Hi,<BR>You won't want to miss the White Pass Railway in Skagway, if you go there.

Here's a couple tidbits .... The tram in Juneau is expensive because it is owned by the Indians. Others who own property on the mountain were all denied building a tramway that would more economical. April is correct .... do not book it off the ship, just walk across the street and if the mountain is not fogged-in, do it.<BR><BR>I did both the White Pass Railroad and the land tour. I found them both great experiences. Rather than take the ship's land tour contact an old native who drives an old van to take you up the pass. If you want history and areas that the ship's tour does not go contact Dyea Dan @ 907-983-2731. You can also catch him at the Gold Rush Lodge where he hangs out. You can get the "800" number of the lodge by going on the Skagway website.<BR><BR>Have fun.<BR><BR>Paul<BR><BR>

Paul, you have done it again. Thank you so much! Any other tidbits? What about the Normandie Restaurant on board the Summit. Is it worth the extra?

Sorry for asking the question, Paul. I now remember, you have not sailed the Summit yet. Hope you do soon.....will love hearing your review of it. Becky

Dear Sue, We will be going on the Mercury to Alaska in July. I've been doing some research on shore excursions and found a great site: cruisecritic.com, go to boards, go to Ports of Call, go to Alaska. There should be a lot of answers to your questions there. We have taken only one previous cruise which was marvelous on the Grand Princess. I never made reservations through the ship-they are always more expensive. At the above web site shore excursion companies at all the Alaska ports will be discussed by people who have used them. We will be booking our shore trips directly through their web sites. Saves a bundle. And these companies deal so much with cruise ships they recommend the best time of the day to go so you won't miss your ship departure time. Good Luck.

Everyone,<BR>Thanks for all the info. I will check with the web site Kathy suggests. Kathy, if you remember after your cruise let me know how it was. Hope you have a wonderful time.<BR>Sue